Dublin's main street - Review of O'Connell Street, Dublin, Ireland - TripAdvisor Review of O'Connell Street Dublin, Ireland (North City Centre) 3537057000 Dublin Luxury Small-Group Tour including St Patrick's Cathedral See more tours on Viator More attraction details Attraction details Owner description: A bustling city street lined with monuments dedicated to some of the leaders in the fight for Irish independence. There are newer reviews for this attraction “Dublin's main street” Reviewed December 9, 2011 Not much of interest here apart from the GPO (General Post Office) or the Gresham hotel. Otherwise mostly fast food outlets and not very safe at night unfortunately. Helpful? Ask Ritabix about O'Connell Street This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. 1,185 reviews from our community Visitor rating Fantastic very central. In the heart of Dublin access to all amenities. Visited October 2011 Ask amtmcdaid about O'Connell Street This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC.

Karen S “not enough time” Reviewed November 24, 2011 Cant wait to go back so I can see all of this area because Im sure I missed loads. Visited November 2011 Ask Karen S about O'Connell Street This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. JoaoVarandas “What the hell?” Reviewed November 18, 2011 What's with that spike sticking in the middle of the street? I personally find it ugly, an historical street of Dublin deserved something a lot better than that sticking out. If you are into history this is where the Irish independence started! Go and get your history book and stroll up O'Connel street to find out what, where and when. Visited November 2011 Ask JoaoVarandas about O'Connell Street This review is the subjective opinion of a TripAdvisor member and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Carlton3 “Pickpockets spoil a great street” Reviewed October 16, 2011 O'Connell Street is a very wide street leading from old Dublin to the new town over the O'Connell St Bridge.

At the corner of O'Connell & Henry Sts where the Henry St Shopping Mall starts there are Eastern European pickpocket gangs. I was surprised to see how many shops in Henry St had doorway security guards, whereas over the bridge in the new town I didn't notice any. When we returned to our hotel at the end of O'Connell St the door was locked from reception. You had to knock to be let in. We twice saw groups of Eastern European men doing the handover - i.e. Passing on goods stolen from tourists to another gang member walking in the opposite direction. We were surprised to see this so openly in Dublin. Visited September 2011 A Short Guide to Dublin's O'Connell Street By Bernd Biege Updated August 07, 2016. O’Connell Street is Dublin’s main thoroughfare, the Irish capital’s widest (but not longest) street, and as near to being the “center of Dublin” as you can be. And even though eclipsed by the glitzy Grafton Street on the Southside, O’Connell Street and the surrounding areas are still the main shopping destination on the Northside.

From a tourist perspective it Is quite easy – basically everyone has to see O'Connell Street when visiting Dublin, and most visitors will not be able to avoid the large boulevard anyway. Most buses run through this street, most Dublin tours touch upon this street. A street of superlatives, nonetheless. O'Connell Street is reputed to be Europe's widest urban street. And it is home to the "Spire", said to be the world's tallest piece of (freestanding) sculpture. All this puts the relatively short street into the list of the top sights of Dublin . And, naturally, it also is one of the free attractions of Dublin . O’Connell Street in a Nutshell O’Connell Street is Dublin's main thoroughfare, with some impressive architecture - including the historic General Post Office. continue reading below our video Beware! The 5 Most Common Travel Scams It also is effectively the center of Dublin and the home of the "Spire", the world's tallest sculpture. Having said that, the area can be very crowded during office and shopping hours, and may be a bit "rough" at night .

Formerly named "Sackville Street" (the name by which it was still referred to during the 1916 Easter Rising), O'Connell Street is without doubt the most impressive street in Dublin. Though relatively short, it is reputed to be the widest urban street in Europe. Numerous monuments, historic buildings and a lively atmosphere await the visitor. What to See on Dublin’s O'Connell Street While O'Connell Street is ultimately just a typical city street and has some ugly spots, thanks to misguided attempts at modernization (e.g. the former Eircom and council offices, both now closed), its sheer domination of the city center north of the Liffey makes it unmissable in every sense.

Walking southwards from Parnell Square towards O'Connell Bridge you will see the Parnell Monument showing the leader of the Irish Parliamentary Party in full oratorical swing, a taxi rank with its own small Sacred Heart Shrine and a statue of Father Matthew, the “Apostle of Temperance”, nearby, the former Carlton Cinema with its painted fake windows, the "Spire", made from gleaming steel with an illuminated tip (reputed to be visible all over Dublin – this is a prime example of an Irish tall story, as the Spire isn’t even visible in the sidestreets of O’Connell Street, due to tall buildings being in the way), the world's tallest sculpture and nicknamed "The Stiletto in the Ghetto" or simply “the Needle”, a statue of James Joyce a few yards away and in front of the Kylemore Café, in an almost Chaplin-esque pose, commonly known as "The Prick with the Stick", the General Post Office , main focus of the Easter Rising 1916 , main post office in Ireland, and boasting a modern museum to boot, Cleary's Department Store, albeit closed down for some time now and suffering through a sort of development limbo, the statue of Jim L

arkin (trade union organizer “Big Jim” is exhorting the working masses to get off their knees, or may be throwing his hands up in desperation), and finally the massive O'Connell Monument with an allegorical representation of all Ireland, still displaying bullet holes from the Easter Rising in some statues!

The best way to enjoy O’Connell Street is as a flaneur (an aimless walker with time to spare, an almost forgotten art) – not by searching out certain hotspots, but by leisurely walking up and down the street, taking in the architecture, the artworks, and the people of Dublin. The street is always bustling and busy, even late at night (though the large amount of homeless and not-very-social people might at times make a negative impression after nightfall). And the best way to walk up and down O’Connell Street is the central reservation, where once the trams ran, rarely used these days, even when the sidewalks are clogged. If you want to experience O’Connell Street in peace and quiet, come on a Sunday morning, when all Dublin seems to be almost deserted up to around 11 AM. If you want to experience Hell on Earth, try to navigate O’Connell Street on any shopping weekend just before Christmas in the mid-afternoon, when getting run over by a bus almost seems to be the best alternative to coping with the masses.

Dublin's main street - O'Connell Street, Dublin Traveller Reviews - TripAdvisor “Pickpockets spoil a great street” Reviewed 17 October 2011 O'Connell Street is a very wide street leading from old Dublin to the new town over the O'Connell St Bridge. At the corner of O'Connell & Henry Sts where the Henry St Shopping Mall starts there are Eastern European pickpocket gangs. I was surprised to see how many shops in Henry St had doorway security guards, whereas over the bridge in the new town I didn't notice any. When we returned to our hotel at the end of O'Connell St the door was locked from reception. You had to knock to be let in. We twice saw groups of Eastern European men doing the handover - i.e. Passing on goods stolen from tourists to another gang member walking in the opposite direction. We were surprised to see this so openly in Dublin.

Visited September 2011 Craic Dublin in 48 hours | Ireland.com Craic Dublin in 48 hours Great For Nightlife | Traditional pubs | Fun days out | Friendliness | Great food Access and public transport Dublin Airport | Heuston (train) Station | Connolly (train) Station | Busáras | Dublin Port | Luas | Dart It’s one thing to say you’ve been to Dublin. Another to say you’ve done it. Sounds, songs, tunes and tastes – Dublin is a cosmopolitan European city with a very Irish heart. From traditional music to stunning urban parks, the city is all about giving things a go…and you’ve got 48 hours to crack it, so let’s start: Day 1 5PM – Order a pint, pull up a stool and get pally with the locals. The city centre is packed with traditional pubs boasting grand mahogany bars and stained glass windows. Cosy up with a local craft beer at The Stag’s Head , Kehoe’s , The Palace or try some trad music at The Cobblestone in Smithfield, where some of Ireland’s best musicians kick off nightly sessions.

6:30PM – For a Dublin-centric vibe with a side of Texan BBQ, hit up Bison Bar , the best of its kind in town with finger-licking slow-roast beef brisket, juicy sausages and pulled pork. Add a bit of old-school cool with one of their excellent whiskey cocktails. Pints are poured, singing battles are fought and won and the silence of the audience reigns supreme. Irish Times review of The Cobblestone pub 8:30PM – There’s no time to stop. In Whelan’s , the night’s just getting started. This great music venue has excellent acoustics, which make it perfect for intimate gigs. There are DJs and a late bar every night, too. 11PM – As the evening winds down, make your way to the Vintage Cocktail Club and see the night out in style. Smack in the middle of Dublin’s bustling Temple Bar , VCC is all speakeasy-chic, with a cocktail list that transports you back to the 1920s. Top tip: book a table before you visit.

Other notables for taking it later into the night are The Dice Bar in Smithfield, House in Leeson Street and Chelsea Drugstore on George’s Street. Dublin: Quick Eats Mama’s Revenge Burrito Hut, South Leinster Street Day 2 10AM – After a breakfast of champions at the Fumbally Café , make your way to the Gallery of Photography in Temple Bar. Hosting changing exhibitions, the gallery is on Meeting House Square, which comes alive with a busy food market on Saturdays. 11:30AM – It’s just a short walk from here to Trinity College , Ireland’s oldest university. Strolling the cobblestoned squares really gives you a sense of walking with the greats – the university counts Oscar Wilde, Samuel Beckett and Oliver Goldsmith among its alumni. Don’t miss the Book of Kells while you’re here. I have the simplest tastes. I am always satisfied by the best. Oscar Wilde 12:30PM – Wander up to The Little Museum of Dublin overlooking St Stephen’s Green. The museum is a treasure-trove of old posters, newspapers, photographs and Dublin memorabilia. Still haven’t found what you’re looking for?

Head to the top floor for a U2 exhibition. 1PM – As you leave the Georgian house, take three steps to the right. Any more and you’ll miss Hatch & Sons with modern-meets-traditional Irish food, a great little café that turns out Irish favourites like Waterford blaa bread rolls filled with crispy bacon. Dublin: the big five Water, water everywhere – and lots of ways to submerse yourself with Dublin’s water-based activities. 2PM – After lunch, head to Dublin’s Creative Quarter , a network of streets around South William Street. Browse around hip interiors stores such as Industry and the Irish Design Shop ; walk through Dublin’s oldest shopping centre – the Victorian George’s Street Arcade ; and stop off for coffee at Kaph . 3PM – Cutting right through the city centre, the River Liffey defines the city’s sense of identity… be it north or south. See it from a different perspective with City Kayaking , who run kayaking trips up the river under Dublin’s famous bridges. Craft beer may be the new thing, but a pint of “the black stuff” is still required drinking on any trip to Dublin.

The New York Times 6PM – With lovely views over the River Liffey, the foodie hub of The Woollen Mills is the place to grab a bowl of old-school Dublin fare such as Coddle (a bacon, sausage and potato stew) in a buzzy modern space over four floors. 730PM – Next stop? It’s got to be the theatre. The Woollen Mills is within striking distance of two great Dublin theatres: Smock Alley , which opened in 1662, and the Project Arts Centre , both of which offer multidisciplinary arts experiences. 10PM – Buzzing after the show? Keep it local and head to The Workman’s on the quays of the River Liffey. This multi-floor venue has seen everything from gigs by Kodaline to a DJ set by Cillian Murphy. Sorted. Day 3 10AM – Dublin’s coastline is incredible, and you’d be mad to miss it. Jump on the Dart and in about 25 minutes you’ll be at Sandycove, where you can plunge into the sea with the locals at the 40ft bathing area.

Warm up with a coffee in 64 Food & Wine in Glasthule, before setting your sights on Killiney Hill , with great views Dublin Bay and Wicklow . 1PM – Get the Dart back into town and head for one of the best brunches in Dublin at Brother Hubbard on Capel Street. It’s got a friendly local atmosphere on a street that’s increasingly becoming a hub of the Dublin social scene. From the Tart with the Cart (Molly Malone statue) and the Stiletto in the Ghetto (Spire of Light, O’Connell St)... in Dublin, public art collides with irreverent street humour like nowhere else. Lonely Planet 230PM – Finish off the day with a visit to the Museum of Decorative Arts & History at Collins Barracks, and the chance to see 15,000 artefacts from the centenary celebration of Ireland 2016 . There are also rooms featuring reconstructed Irish design, as well as an exhibition on Eileen Gray, one of Ireland’s most famous designers and a leading member of the international modern design movement..

5 Fab Festivals Shopping in Dublin Shopping in Dublin Stephen's Green Shopping Centre Hands up who’s visited London, Paris and Berlin purely to shop? Yes, shopping there is legendary, but the logistics are difficult. I've collapsed into cafés in these cities, far from my hostel/hotel, exhausted, vowing to return to complete the shopping mission another time. There is no such hassle in Dublin. Dublin is big enough to offer distinct shopping districts that are small enough not only to explore on foot, but to stroll between. Quirky markets, trendy boutiques, designer stores and chic cafés are easy to find. The best shopping complex outside the city centre is Dundrum Shopping Centre, 10 minutes away by tram (Luas). There's no need for frustrating map navigation or stressful underground travel. Read more in my guide Shopping in Dublin: Four Key Areas . Where to shop Two of the main shopping areas are pedestrianised and are found either side of the River Liffey. Grafton Street is on the south side and Henry and Jervis Streets are on the north side. The Jervis Street Shopping Centre is the main complex in the latter area (125 Abbey Street Upper, Dublin 1, ).

Around the corner from Jervis and Henry Streets, you'll find Penneys (O'Connell Street, Dublin 1, +353 (1) 656 6666, - this is an Irish bargain basement for funky, trendy but throwaway fashion and accessories and is much loved amongst Irish fashionistas - just don't expect your buys to last a lifetime! Just 10 minutes away, Grafton Street tends to attract an entirely different market, especially its flagship store Brown Thomas (88 Grafton Street, Dublin 2, +353 (1) 6056666, ) where you'll find much more extravagant shoppers in search of designer wares. Don’t let this put you off if you’re on a shoestring, though, as there are some funky markets and eccentric vintage shops tucked away in the small roads and alleys that connect Grafton Street with its surrounds. My favourite is George's Street Arcade (S Great Georges St, Dublin, +353 (1) 283 6077, ) where you'll find quirky and and second-hand gems.

The Powerscourt Shopping Centre (59 William St, Dublin 2, +353 (1) 6794144, - where you'll also find the ever creative and evolving The Loft Market every Friday-Sunday, on the second floor, championing emerging young Irish designers - and Westbury Shopping Mall (off Grafton Street, Dublin 2) are well worth checking out for individual boutiques and original fashions, tasty cafes and classy bars. St Stephen's Green shopping centre (Stephens Green West, Dublin 2, +353 (1) 4780888, , main photo above) is a massive, glass-walled complex at the top of Grafton Street. If it's high street labels you're after, you'll find them here. I, however, find the centre too packed at weekends to enjoy browsing. Dundrum Town Centre (Sandyford Road, Dundrum, Dublin 16, +353(1)2991700, ) is another extensive shopping complex 10 minutes outside the city centre, accessible easily by the Luas at two stops, Balally or Dundrum.

This is a designer and high-street Mecca on many floors under one massive roof and there's ample parking (but it's not cheap) as well as public transport facilities. There's a large cinema here, and a great selection of restaurants, too. En route to Dundrum on the Luas, you'll fall upon Ranelagh, a buzzing village that's more than worth a stop with wonderful boutiques, cafés, restaurants and bars. Original weekend markets are where adventurous shoppers will find creative designers, original crafts and delicious Irish food at low prices.

As well as The Loft Market every Friday-Sunday, on the second floor of Powerscourt Shopping Centre (mentioned above) that champions Irish and ethical fashion, you've got Designer Mart at Cow's Lane (Cow's Lane, Old City Temple Bar , Dublin 2, +353 1 677 2255; ) or the Temple Bar Food Market (Temple Bar Cultural Trust, 12 East Essex Street, Temple Bar, Dublin 2; +353 1 6772255; ), both on Saturday , as well as the Point Village Market, two Luas stops from O'Connell Street (1 N Wall Quay, Dublin 1, 086 827 4839, ; closed until Spring 2011 check the website for opening date) on Sunday, are the main city centre markets. Read more in my guide Shopping in Dublin: quirky villages and vibrant markets . Temple Bar houses quirky boutiques, second-hand shops, and jewellery stores. Weave slowly through the cobbled streets and you'll find a few nuggets.

Travel a little further (using public transport) to the pretty coastal villages on Dublin's outskirts where funky weekend markets often take place, such as Dun Laoghaire, Dalkey, Malahide and Howth . Boutique shoppers will also find some treats in these towns. Shopping tips Shopping times are generally 10am to 6pm, with late shopping on Thursday nights until 8pm or 9pm daily in the larger stores. The Luas costs from 1.80 euros to 2.50 euros to travel from the city centre to Ranelagh or Dundrum shopping districts on the Luas line south of city centre. The cheapest Irish store for great bargains is Penneys - you'll find Penneys on O'Connell St and in Dundrum Shopping Centre (both address above). Dublin Main Towns - Enjoy Ireland Enjoy Ireland Links Balbriggan Balbriggan is a small manufacturing town with a good beach. The river Delvin, well stocked with trout, was said to be the christening site of St. Benignus, successor to St. Patrick. Fine sandy beaches stretch from here to Co. Meath.

Blackrock Today the restored village of Blackrock is a thriving commercial shopping and leisure area. The restored main street in the village contains shops, pubs and restaurants to suit all tastes and pockets. Jack O Rourke, a traditional Irish pub , is well worth a visit. At one end of the main street are Logans Restaurant and the quaintly named Potters Bar. At the other end of the main street is Blackrock and Frascate Shopping Centres. At weekends, there is an open market located just off the main street. Brittas Situated in the far south-west of Dublin County, on the road to Blessington Lakes, this village provides an excellent base from which to explore the forest walks and scenic views in the Dublin hills. Clondalkin Once a walled town of the English Pale, Clondalkin is now a fast-growing ‘new town’. A Round Tower survives from a monastery founded in the seventh century as well as granite crosses in the Protestant churchyard and the small 16th century Tully’s Castle. Corkagh Demesne is an extensive public park consisting of woodland walks by the Camac River. There are excellent views of the Dublin and Wicklow mountains.

The park also contains a children’s playground and picnic area. Nearby is the Camac Valley Tourist Caravan and Camping Park, with space for 113 touring caravans and 50 camping sites.which opened in May 1996. Dalkey The charming town of Dalkey with its medieval streetscape is attractively situated on the southern end of Dublin bay, only a half hour drive from the city centre. Dalkey Island, lying off the tip of the mainland, was first inhabited around 3500 BC by Stone Age settlers. Other neighbouring attractions include the James Joyce Museum, Shaw’s Cottage, Archibold’s Castle, Killiney hill and the Cill Inion Leinin church as well as the chance to do some celebrity spotting since Dalkey has become a most fashionable place to live. The unique 8th century church of Saint Begnets is situated on Castle Street, next door to the Goat Castle, which is home to the heritage centre – a marvellous place to begin your tour of Dalkey. Donabate The north and south beaches at Donabate offer wonderful recreation and has scenic walks around the peninsula towards Portrane that add to the appeal of the place.

Newbridge House is located near Donabate in north County Dublin. Dublin 1 The very heart of Dublin is O’ Connell St., its’ most celebrated street. Within its confines one can savour a taste of real Dublin. Areas such as Henry St., provide excellent shopping, with markets founded by real ‘ Dubs’. The GPO on O’ Connell St., marks the point where the Easter Rising of 1916 began. Dublin 2 The tourism centre of Dublin. This area of the city houses many of Dublins most famous landmarks, inlcuding City Hall, the Ha’penny Bridge and Dublin Castle. The Temple Bar area is Dublin’s Cultural Quarter in the heart of Ireland’s capital city. Located in one of the oldest areas, between Trinity College and Christchurch Cathedral, Temple Bar combines culture, commerce – and people. Theatres, artist studios, small galleries, hotels, restaurants, bars and shops fill the cobbled streets with colour and atmosphere. Not only has the revival of the area after years of neglect drawn thousands of visitors, it has also brought residents, with new and refurbished apartments attracting people to live in the centre of the city.

Temple Bar has a medieval street pattern which innovatively combines two new public squares, Temple Bar Square a meeting point for shoppers, and Meeting House Square a film and theatre performance square which are linked together by the ultra modern Curved Street. Temple Bar is pedestrian friendly, so walk through the network of narrown cobbled streets and experience the people, the colour, the sounds and the atmosphere of Temple Bar. The following is just a selection of what you will find. Dublin 3 An area of great interest in that it contains Croake Park, headquarters of the Gaelic Athletic Association. At just 3 km from the City Centre the Phoneix park is the biggest and most attractive city park in Europe. Dublin 4 A most fashionable area of Dublin, home to Landsdowne Road with its famous rugby stadium. Many of the residences of this part of Dublin retain the facades of the Georgian period, a popular attraction of Dublin. Some of the first examples can be found in and around Fitzwilliam Square. The magnificent St. Stephen’s Green provides a refuge from the bustle of city life.

Dublin 5 Within a short distance of the Phoenix Park, this part of Dublin is mostly residential, there are all of the facilities associated with a modern city. Dublin 6 A mostly residential sector of the city. Suburbs such as Rathmines and Rathgar provide much needed accommodation for the non-Dubliners who converge on the capital for work and play. This has earned the area the title ‘Flatland’ Within easy distance of the city centre it is a good base from which to see Dublin. Dublin 8 An area of Dublin which runs alongside the city river, the Liffey. It is a busy area of shops, restaurants and bars. Dublin 9 A largely residential area which is also the site of Dublin Botanical Gardens. Within a short distance of the city, since it is not as fashionable as some other areas, accommodation may be easier to find as well as cheaper. A taste of the real Dublin can be sampled here. Dublin 13 A coastal area of N.E. Dublin who’s principle centre is Howth. A popular area for day-trippers from Dublin and location for many exclusive dwellings. Dublin 14 A largely residental area.

Things of interest include Roebuck Castle now used by UCD as a law department. Dundrum provides good access to Dublin City Centre and the Dublin Mountains. The area is littered with popular pubs. Dublin 15 Follow the riverside road to Blanchardstown and on to Mulhuddart. Turn right up church Road to visit Lady’s Well, an ancient shrine with a ruined fourteenth-century church nearby. The graveyard just beyond it has an impressive collection of elaborately inscribed eighteenth-century tombstones. Return across the river and follow Blakestown Road to the south. At the bottom turn right towards Clonsilla on the Royal Canal. the spectacular three-kilometre cutting through the limestone hill provided the waterway with one of its more hazardous stretches, so narrow that traffic could only go in one direction at a time. In November 1845 sixteen passengers were drowned here when their boat struck a rock. For a scenic route to Dublin you can head south to the Liffey and follow the Lucan Road along the north bank of the river. Dublin 18 An extensive area of SE Dublin. The area includes many sandy beaches and cliff walks. Killiney is home to many international stars.

The area leads to South Co Dublin and is in easy reach of both Duboin city centre and the mildeness of Co. Wicklow. Dublin 20 Situated on a bend in the river near the South west corner of Phoenix Park is the village of Chapelizod, which traditionally takes its name from Isolde (Iseult), the beloved of Tristan and daughter of Aengus, King of Ireland. It is also the setting of Sheridan le Fanu’s story The House by the Churchyard and the birthplace of the newspaper magnate Alfred Harmsworth, later Lord Northcliffe (1865-1922). Dublin 22 There is lots of accommodation on offer here. It is situated on the main routes to the west of Ireland and there is easy access to the city centre. Major shopping centres are plentiful and pubs and restaurants provide the main source of entertainment. Dun Laoghaire Boats and trains were responsible for the transformation of Dun Laoghaire in the early nineteenth century from a little seaside town into a bustling centre of fashion and commerce.

The great harbour built by John Rennie between 1817 and 1860 with its two massive East and West piers – 1.3km and 1.5km long respectively – became the principal terminus for mail packet services from England and Wales. It is now the arrival point for car ferries from Britain, and a major yachting centre. This busy port town was named Kingstown after George IV visited Ireland in 1821. The town enjoyed a further boost in 1834 when the Dublin-Kingston Railway opened and soon established a reputation as a fashionable residential area. The town’s old name was restored in 1922. A series of seven guided walks makes up the Dun Laoghaire Way, stretching from Blackrock through Dun Laoghaire to Dalkey, Killiney and Loughlinstown. There are also special interest trails including a literary walk and two archaeological trails. Alongside the railway is a footpath known as ‘The Metals’ which runs as far as on the route of a small funicular railway which carried stone from Dalkey quarry for the building of the harbour.

From 1844 to 1854 the route was used by an Atmospheric railway which worked on a compressed air system. Howth Howth, 14.4km north-east of Dublin, a peninsula which forms the northern boundary of Dublin Bay. From the top of the hill of Howth, there are magnificent views of Dublin City and the Wicklow mountains. Howth Harbour on the northern side is a noted yachting centre. 1.6km off-shore is the little island called Ireland’s Eye. Farther north is Lambay Island, a noted bird sanctuary. In the town itself are the ruins of Howth Abbey, and adjoining, is the demesne of Howth Castle, justly famous for its magnificent Rhododendron walk and Public Golf Course. The Rhododendron walk is open throughout the year except Christmas Day. It also contains a massive Dolmen known as “Aideens Grave”. Killiney The name Killiney comes from the Irish cill Inion Lenine, which means Church of the Daughters of Lenine.

A tiny medieval church, dating back to the 11th century, is dedicated to the seven daughters of Lenine who are believed to have lived in the 6th century. Killiney Park features cliff and woodland walks with superb views over Dublin city and Dun Laoghaire harbour, Dalkey Bay, ofter compared to the Bay of Naples, with the Sugar Loaf and Dublin mountains in the distance. Kilternan Celebrated in Irish history as the seat of the monastery founded by St. Maelruain, Tallaght was, with Finglas, one of the “Two Eyes of Ireland” in the ninth century. Today Tallaght is the capital of the new administrative county of South Dublin. Tymon Park, through which the River Poddle meanders, has many fine water features which support large colonies of wildfowl. Extensive new woodland planting has enhanced the many lovely walks in the park. The Sean Walsh Memorial Park in Tallaght Town Centre is a landscaped parkland with many water features and active recreation areas. Tallaght is also the location of The Square, Ireland’s largest shopping centre, which includes a 12 screen multiplex cinema.

Loughlinstown Facilities in the Loughlinstown area include a comprehensive leisure complex and a modern hospital. It is close to golf clubs, a shopping complex and is the gateway to the South East counties. Loughshinny A tiny, picturesque harbour, a sweep of sand protected by low cliffs and pleasant views towards Lambar Island, are features of Loughshinny’s beauty. Lucan Lucan was originally a small village on the banks of the River Liffey. Today, a large town has grown up around the village, which has survived. It is known for its Georgian architecture. You can take a stroll along the pleasant valley known as Strawberry Beds. Griffeen Valley Linear Park is a gentle rolling valley park complete with a gurgling stream. A fine feature of the park is the all-weather, floodlit running track. Lusk North of Donabate is the village of Lusk. The round tower here is the only surviving relic of a monastery founded in the 6th century. Attached is a 16th century tower, and a church on the site contains a number of fine medieval tombs. Open to the public by arrangement.

Malahide The picturesque seaside town of Malahide is well worth a visit. Malahide Castle is a huge fairytale castle set in 250 acres of grounds. The castle’s core dates from the 14th century but there were many later additions to it. The Fry Model Railway is situated in the old corn store in the grounds of the castle. Started in the 1920s by Cyril Fry, a local railway engineer, the 240 sq metre exhibit contains models of Irish trains, miniatures of stations, streets and local landmarks such as the River Liffey and Howth Head. Malahide boasts many fine restaurants, lively bars and quirky shops. Malahide Malahide is only 16km from Dublin, it is a historic village. The streets are lined with attractive small shops, giving way to terraces of graceful homes with colourful gardens. Picturesquely situated on the Malahide estuary. A scenic coastal road links Malahide with Portmarnock with its superb beach which was used as a runway for the take-off of the first East to West solo transatlantic flight by Mollison.

Close to malahide Station is Malahide Castle, a lofty structure commenced in the 12th Century and subsequently added to. In the grounds of the Castle is the Fry Model Railway. Monkstown Situated about 1km from Dun Laoghaire on the main road to Dublin, Monkstown derives from the cistercian Monks who arrived in the twelfth century and built Monkstown Castle, which can still be viewed today. In the centre of the village is Monkstown church, built in a unique Moorish Gothic Style, the Church was claimed by John Betjeman as his favourite Victorian church and is well worth a visit. Arching away from the church is the very attractive Monkstown crescent, with charming Edwardian villas on one side and with Gourmet restaurants, fashion boutiques and vintage wines. For the thirsty traveller, Goggins Pub beckons. The Lambert Puppet Theatre is situated in Clifton Terrace. Mount Merrion Adjacent to Stillorgan, Mount Merrion features the landscape Park known as Deerpark, with its lovely walks, tennis courts and playing pitches. There are magnificent views from the park overlooking Dublin bay and Dubllin City. Access is also availableto University College Dublin from Mount Merrion.

The university provides self-catering accommodation during the summer months. Portmarnock Perhaps best known internationally for its championship golf course overlooking the Irish Sea, Portmarnock is also a popular seaside resort with a magnificent 5km sandy beach known as the Velvet Strand. Portrane Always a popular watering hole for Dubliners, Portrane has a lovely beach and some glorious scenic walks sweeping round Rogerstown Estuary. Rathcoole Rathcoole is a small village to the south of Dublin city. Once home to the celebrated writer Christy Brown, holder of the Nobel Prize for literature for his autobiography, My Left Foot. Rathfarnham Rathfarnham is a suburban village with charming shopfronts at the NW extremity of Dun Laoghaire/ Rathdown. The Castle, National Monument,dates from late 16th Century and has an interesting history, it is being restored, and guided tours may be available. Just south of the village is Saint Endas a former school founded by Patrick Pearse, and now a museum. Attractions include exhibitions, an audio visual show, tea rooms, walks and a nature trail in the surrounding park, and outdoor concerts during summer.

Near Saint Endas are Marlay House and Park 214 acres of woodland parkland with water features which are home to wild fowl, and a sculpture trail. A craft centre is located in the courtyard adjacent to the House, with 16 craft industries operating. Rush Rush is a seaside resort and market gardening centre in North Dublin. Fine beaches north and south of the harbour have attracted generations of Dubliners. Lambay Island, offshore, is a noted bird sanctuary. Saggart Saggart is a South Dublin village, located at the foothills of the Dublin mountains. Sandycove This seaside suburb is located around a pleasant harbour and has a famous Martello Tower where the writer James Joyce once stayed for a week as a guest of poet Oliver St John Gogarty. It is also the birthplace of Irish patriot Sir Roger Casement (1864-1916). Shankill Shankill, a suburban village with a rural aspect is located in the coast in South-East County Dublin 2km from the County Wicklow border and only 9km from Dun Laoghaire ferryport.

The village has recently undergone total refurbishment and is well served by attractive shopping facilities, pubs restaurants, schools, churches and a library. Activities such as walking, golfing , fishing, horse-riding, tennis and bowling are catered for in the area and Shankill has the only registered Caravan and Camping sitein South East County Dublin. Nearby are the remains of Ballycorus leadmines with its prominent chimney and Carrickgollen Hill offering panoramic views of the area. Shankill also has a number of high quality guest houses including Farmhouse accommodation. Skerries Skerries is a small coastal village with a largely stoney shoreline and several small flat-topped island offshore. It is easily visited by car, train or bus. The harbour lies north of Rush and is reached by turning right off the main Dublin-Belfast road about 5km north of Swords. Follow the signposts through Lusk to Skerries. Stillorgan Stillorgan is in the suburbs of Dublin with a variety of facilities and amenities. These include a cinema complex, internationally renowned bowling arena, Glenalbyn indoor Swimming Pool, a large and attractive Shopping centre and a range of restaurantsand bars to suit everyone’s taste and budget.

Glenbabyn, an area of Stillorgan is the base for Kilmacud Crokes Gaelic with an indoor swimming pool which is open to the public, the 46A bus is the most frequent bus service within Dun Laoghaire Rathdown, and it passes through Stillorgan, connecting Dun Laoghaire to Dublin city. Locally you will find Dublin oldest Restaurant Beaufield mews which is set in a coach house and stable buildings. It is well known for its quality of food and service. Sutton The sea around the Howth peninsula has shaped a lovely beach at Sutton. The picturesque harbour in Howth and walks around the head are popular attractions in the area. Swords The busy village of Swords lies west of Malahide. Legend has it that Swords was founded at a well blessed by St. Colmcille. The ancient ruins of a Round Tower can be found in the grounds of the Church of Ireland. The Ward Home to one of Dublin’s championship golf courses, The Ward is located north of Dublin city.

Email address Dublin area guide - Time Out Dublin Dublin area guide Discover Dublin's past, present and future from Temple Bar to Docklands Book travel Free weekly email packed with travel tips for major world cities, great competitions and exciting features. Sign me up! O'Connell Street sign, Dublin - © iStockphoto.com/Marek Slusarczyk By Sam Le Quesne The city centre comprises just a few manageably sized neighbourhoods, bisected by the Liffey, and you'll find that it's no distance at all from the top of O'Connell Street (on the north side of the river) to the peaceful Grand Canal on the south side. By far the best way to set about exploring the place is on foot. In fact, if you've got a car, park it right now and try not to think of it again unless you're heading out of town. The traffic is too heavy and the town too small to make driving worthwhile. All you need is a good map, a bit of sunshine and a pair of comfortable shoes. Despite its compact layout, Dublin manages to pack in a good deal of variety.

There are historic buildings by the dozen, plenty of green spaces and quiet squares, and enough shops, bars and restaurants to gobble up your holiday allowance ten times over. It is a city with a strong sense of its past (it seems that every few steps brings you to another statue, another heritage plaque announcing the birth place of this playwright, the first home of that poet). And yet, an equal portion of its landscape has been consigned to the future, with a crop of modern structures and buildings contending with the Georgian terraces and the ancient bell towers - of these, O'Connell Street's Spire is undoubtedly the most recognisable, while the many signature bridges that span the Liffey and the multi-million euro developments and regeneration projects from Smithfield to Docklands are there to be discovered. Dublin by area Temple Bar The main action is concentrated in and around the two most central neighbourhoods of Temple Bar and St Stephen's Green. The former, a maze of tiny cobbled streets and busy thoroughfares, has the largest concentration of bars, restaurants, night spots and trendy shops. It is also home to the city's two major cathedrals, St Patrick's and Christ Church .

But somehow, it copes admirably well with its personality clash of holiness and consumerism. While the idea of awe-inspiring monuments to Christianity and raucous parties of staggering stags existing side by side may have caused friction among the locals, it seems to go almost without a hitch as far as visitors are concerned. The rule of thumb is simple: if you want to raise hell, hit the pubs and clubs of Temple Bar after dark; if it's heaven you're interested in, stick to the cathedrals. St Stephen's Green More sophisticated by far is the neighbouring St Stephen's Green and its clutch of excellent museums around Kildare Street (notably the National Museum of Archaeology & History ) and the treasure trove of fine art that is the National Gallery of Ireland . And for consumer culture, this is also Dublin's ground zero, thanks to nearby Grafton Street with its shops, cafés and restaurants. O'Connell Street The other main shopping hub is O'Connell Street (and its tributary, the ever-busy Henry Street), which culminates in a spearhead of excellent museums dotted around Parnell Square (most notably the Hugh Lane Gallery ).

To the west of here is the up-and-coming Smithfield and, further still, the vast Phoenix Park (also home to Dublin Zoo ) while just across the bridge to the south is the formidable campus of Trinity College , with its ancient claim to fame in pride of place in the Old Library & Book of Kells . Docklands Finally, to the east is the heady mix of past, present and future that is the city's Docklands. Name (will appear on the site) * Email (will not appear on the site) * Tick to receive relevant updates from Time Out including news, events, offers and competitions. * Mandatory fields for leaving a comment

Question: What is the main street in Dublin
Answer: O'Connell Street